Bringing a guest to the interview

[naina323]

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Hi all! For those of you that have already interviewed, how common is it to bring guests?

I have my first interview coming up, and I'm excited! The school asked me if I wanted to bring a guest, and I told them I'll bring my mother. But I've read some posts on here that say it looks unprofessional to bring a parent/ guest on the interview day. Any thoughts?

 

[Brisks]

Hi all! For those of you that have already interviewed, how common is it to bring guests?

I have my first interview coming up, and I'm excited! The school asked me if I wanted to bring a guest, and I told them I'll bring my mother. But I've read some posts on here that say it looks unprofessional to bring a parent/ guest on the interview day. Any thoughts?

It’s completely up to you. Some people bring a guest and some don’t. I brought a guest to my interviews, saw others bring a parent (some two), and some came alone. The schools were welcoming to all. There’s nothing unprofessional about having someone travel far with you and see with you your future endeavors as you move on in life.

 

[AcademicEyes]

I suppose it would depend on the school and also your personal preference. I have the opposite viewpoint of the other commenter.

I did not bring a guest to my interviews and none of the people I interviewed with did either. The experience is as much about you getting to know the school as it is about the school getting to know you, and for that reason I think it's best to go alone.

If someone traveled with you to the school, wouldn't it be better to visit on a separate day anyway? On a day when you can actually explore a little more and do something more enjoyable than an interview process? That's just my opinion, but ultimately what you're most comfortable with will probably be fine.

 

[Brisks]

I suppose it would depend on the school and also your personal preference. I have the opposite viewpoint of the other commenter.

I did not bring a guest to my interviews and none of the people I interviewed with did either. The experience is as much about you getting to know the school as it is about the school getting to know you, and for that reason I think it's best to go alone.

If someone traveled with you to the school, wouldn't it be better to visit on a separate day anyway? On a day when you can actually explore a little more and do something more enjoyable than an interview process? That's just my opinion, but ultimately what you're most comfortable with will probably be fine.

I completely respect your view and can agree it’s different for everyone.

Just wanted to add that if you do happen to take a guest with you to your interview day, you have the rest of the afternoon and evening to spend with someone after your interview instead of being alone. The school is just one part of the city and most people will probably not be able to make multiple trips besides for the interview and looking at housing later/moving in.

 

[deleted833661]

I saw one other interviewer bring in two guests to an SCCO interview date and it was no problem. They accompanied us throughout the tours but had their own agenda when it came time for the individual interviews. In my opinion it would be nice for close guests to come and learn about the school as well. If you value their opinion then it would be a good experience for both of you.

 

[pstifter]

I brought my girlfriend to one but it wasn't feasible for me to bring anyone to my other interviews. Bottom line is it will not affect your admission decision AT ALL. Don't overthink this.

 

[ray-bean]

At my interviews, about half of the people had brought a guest, either their moms or their significant others. For one of my interviews I went alone and the other I brought a guest, I think I probably liked going alone best just because I didn't have to worry about what my guest was doing!

 

[ktton]

There were 8 people including myself at my interview for UHCO. I would say about 3 of those brought guests. Two of them brought their boyfriend/husband and one girl brought her mom! I personally liked going alone so that I could interact with everyone and do my own thing! But honestly, it's really not a big deal whether you bring a guest or not.

 

[Optomgal12]

Tacking onto this question.. my interview day is a little different. They are calling it a "Scholar's Day" and after the typical interview day there is going to be a reception downtown with faculty and current students. In the invitation email, they said "just let us know the name of your guest." It would be more typical to bring a guest than not in this case, right? Anyone's thoughts would be greatly appreciated!